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99 posts

Mastodon Mine

Mastodon Mine

The Mastodon Peak Loop is an easy ramble near Joshua Tree's Cottonwood Campground and draws plenty of visitors. But while the trail is well-trodden, the story of the mine and nearby mills is lesser known. The Mastodon Mine was owned and operated by George Hulsey (and his family)

Petroglyph Wash Arrastra and Petroglyphs

Petroglyph Wash Arrastra and Petroglyphs

I decided to head out to try and track down an arrastra I read about a long time ago. It was mentioned in a report to be one of only two known “wagon wheel” style arrastras in a national park (The other one is the Pinto Wye Arrastra out in

Barker Dam

Barker Dam

It goes without saying that water is vital in the desert, and Joshua Tree is no different. A rancher named C.O. Barker built the dam around 1902 to improve the natural tank for his cattle. Along with the nearby Cow Camp reservoir, the tank was an important watering hole

Window Rock

Window Rock

I'm a fan of arches. I don't know why, but they are always fun to find. There aren't that many in the heart of Joshua Tree National Park (Arch Rock and Garrett's Arch come to mind), but there is a lesser-known one

Boy Scout Trail

Boy Scout Trail

This is a shuttle hike that goes along the edge of the maze that is the Wonderland of Rocks, and then drops down into Indian Cove. It's not a backcountry hike to an old mine or anything, but I am including it for the completeness of Joshua Tree

Hidden Valley

Hidden Valley

Hidden Valley has a hidden secret: its outlaw past. The history of this area dates back to the mid-1870s when ranchers discovered it had good spring grazing and winter feed for their sheep and cattle. Around this time, a group known as the "McHaney Gang" began utilizing certain

Chaparrosa Peak

Chaparrosa Peak

There is nothing historical here, but this is a nice hike to a peak with great views just outside of Joshua Tree. Directions * Hike: Moderate hike, 5.7 miles Out and back, 1,400 ft gain round trip. 3 hours. The trailhead for this hike is at the visitor center